MINISTER of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, on Tuesday, received 10 state-of-the-art solar-powered vaccine refrigerators equipped with remote temperature monitoring, a development set to bolster Guyana’s immunisation cold chain system.

With this latest addition, Guyana now boasts the largest fleet of these specialised refrigerators in the Caribbean, reinforcing the country’s commitment to ensuring safe and reliable vaccine storage, even in remote areas. The units are primarily allocated for hinterland health facilities, many of which face inconsistent electricity supply, ensuring that vaccines remain effective and accessible to all citizens.

The Solar Direct Drive Vaccine Refrigerators/Ice-Pack Freezers (TCW120SDD) are designed to maintain vaccine integrity under challenging conditions, bridging gaps in cold chain coverage and supporting equitable access to essential immunisation services across the country.

Present at the handover were key health and development officials, including Dr. Oneika Scott, Maternal and Child Health Officer; Deputy Permanent Secretary (F) Glendon Fogenay; Gabriel Vockel, UNICEF Representative; Joann Simpson, Health Officer at UNICEF; Shellon Eversley, Programme Associate, UNICEF; and Crystal Stoll, Communication Officer attached to UNICEF.

Dr. Anthony highlighted the significance of the initiative in strengthening Guyana’s public health infrastructure, particularly in remote communities, and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to improving healthcare access for all citizens.